Worried your vehicle won't make it through the winter and ready for a new one? Before you set foot on a dealer's lot, do your research. Whether you're thinking of buying new or used, do your homework by visiting Web sites like edmunds.com, kbb.com, fueleconomy.gov, and reviewing the April Consumer Reports, its annual auto issue. Then, go to the credit union for your
pre-approved loan.
Ready? Gone are the days when it was fashionable to trade a car for a new one every fall when the model year changed. According to Federal Highway Administration statistics, roughly four out of five cars on the road are more than three years old. Today's vehicles are more reliable and a late model used car may be a better option for you than a new one.
Once you've narrowed your choices, stop by the credit union to apply for your pre-approved loan. With a pre-approved loan you won't be limited to the vehicles the dealer wants to sell you. For example, the special dealer financing is often only available on slow-selling models. But keep your pre-approval under your hat. Dealer financing is a profit center. You don't want the dealer making up for lost profit some other way.
        

Still fumbling with your checkbook and fishing for a pen in the checkout lane? Why not switch to a debit card from the credit union? It's far more convenient and will save you - and the people behind you in line - valuable time. Just swipe the card and either enter your Personal Identification Number (PIN) or sign for the purchase, and a few moments later, you will be on your way.
Your debit card also can save you money when you travel. If you need cash, you can avoid costly out-of-network ATM fees by using your debit card to get cash back at a grocery store, drug store, or other merchant. Outside the U.S., currency exchange fees are typically less than when you use a credit card. Just be sure to contact the credit union to let us know your travel plans so that we can alert our risk managers that you will be you using the card, not a thief. Also be aware that hotels and gas stations may place a hold on your funds when you use your debit card, but restaurants and other merchants usually don't. Apply for your credit union debit card today.